The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM Union), which represents 600,000 members, has announced its support for the Federal Employees Civil Relief Act. The bill, introduced by U.S. Representatives Brendan F. Boyle and Emily Randall, with a companion version sponsored by Senator Brian Schatz, is designed to protect federal employees and contractors from financial difficulties during government shutdowns or breaches of the federal debt limit.
The proposed legislation would temporarily suspend certain civil liabilities, including rent, mortgage payments, student loans, and tax obligations, for workers who are furloughed or required to work without pay. It also aims to prevent evictions, foreclosures, credit penalties, and the loss of insurance coverage for affected employees.
“Every time there’s a government shutdown, the people who keep our country running — the men and women who maintain our aircraft, protect our borders, care for our veterans, and serve our communities — are forced to pay the price,” said IAM Union International President Brian Bryant. “The IAM Union strongly supports the Federal Employees Civil Relief Act because no federal employee or contractor should face eviction, foreclosure, or financial ruin for simply doing their jobs. We thank Representatives Boyle and Randall, and Senator Schatz, for standing up for the dignity and security of working people who deserve protection from political brinkmanship.”
The IAM Union includes over 100,000 federal employees and federal service contract workers in its membership across the United States. These members perform tasks such as maintaining military aircraft, operating national parks, and providing essential public services. The union has a history of advocating for fair treatment and financial stability for these workers during periods when government funding lapses.
The Federal Employees Civil Relief Act is modeled after protections given to military service members under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act. The bill would pause financial obligations and civil proceedings during a shutdown and for 30 days afterward, offering workers additional security.
